Investiture of new Grand Superintendent – 18th October 2018

The Webbington Hotel & Spa at Axbridge was again the venue for the Somerset Royal Arch Investiture Convocation on a wonderful clear day. The Companions were called to order to receive Most Excellent Companion Russell John Race, DL, Second Grand Principal, accompanied by E Comp Simon Rowe, MEGS Devon, acting as 2nd Principal, and E Comp David Boswell, MEGS Suffolk, acting as 3rd Principal. ME Comp Russel Race addressed the Companions present The Grand Superintendent Designate’s Patent of Appointment was presented to the ME Second Grand Principal. The Second Grand Principal then asked for a deputation to introduce E Comp Barry K Woodside, MEGS Designate. The acting Grand Director of Ceremonies, E Comp Nick Bosenquet, formed the escort and E Comp Barry entered the chapter. The Deputy Grand Scribe E, E Comp Graham Redman, then read the Patent which is for a five year period.

E Comp Barry then recited his Obligation and was Invested and took his chair. E Comp Barry then invested his Second Principal, E Comp Ray Beckingham, and Third Principal, E Comp Neil Hurcum. Finally he invested his Deputy Grand Superintendent, E Comp Clive Lambert. The existing Provincial Officers were then confirmed as Officers until the next Provincial Convocation in May 2019

MEGS then addressed the companions and closed the Provincial Grand Chapter, where those dining adjourned to the bar for refreshment before being seated at the Festive Board at 14:00.

The day in pictures:

Rehearsal going wellAll quiet on the northern frontComps assembling

It’s over and time to relaxThe Principals of Somerset Royal Arch

ME Comp Russel John Race proposing the Toast to the new MEGSME Comp Barry Woodside responding to the ToastA gift from Supreme Grand Chapter to MEGSOoo goodies! Gift to 2nd Grand Principal